2027 Chevy Bolt Spied Looking Refreshed but Not Fully Redesigned

Chevrolet's upcoming 2027 Bolt EV will be a refresh rather than a full redesign, retaining the Bolt EUV's larger size. The new model will feature a resculpted front fascia, updated LFP batteries, and a range of around 300 miles. However, it will not have a federal EV tax credit and may not have CarPlay. The base price is expected to be higher than the previous gen's $30K.

General Motors (GM) is preparing to launch its refreshed Chevrolet Bolt EV in 2027, featuring a resculpted front fascia, updated Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries, and a range of approximately 300 miles. The new model will be produced at GM's Fairfax Assembly plant in Kansas and is expected to start at a base price higher than the previous generation's $30,000 [1].

To meet the cost-effective requirements of the new Bolt EV, GM has decided to source LFP batteries from China's Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Limited (CATL) until it can procure domestic batteries through its partnership with South Korea’s LG Energy Solution. This temporary measure is aimed at staying competitive in the EV market while navigating tariffs imposed by the U.S. government [1].

CATL is renowned for its LFP batteries, which are prized for their lower costs compared to more expensive lithium-ion batteries. This cost-effectiveness is crucial for GM to maintain the Bolt EV's competitive price point. However, the decision to use CATL's LFP batteries also raises concerns about battery safety, particularly given past incidents with the first-generation Bolt EV. GM has detailed its comprehensive strategy to address these concerns, including adherence to China's new EV battery safety standard, GB 38031-2025, and the integration of advanced battery management systems and predictive diagnostics [2].

GM's collaboration with LG Energy Solution is expected to begin domestic LFP battery production by late 2027, allowing the automaker to offer a competitive EV now while actively working towards a more robust and localized battery supply chain. The new Bolt EV will feature a Tesla-style charging port (NACS) and promises over 300 miles of driving range, positioning it as a compelling option in the growing EV market, particularly for budget-conscious consumers [2].

References:
[1] https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/companies-markets/transport-logistics/gm-buy-ev-batteries-chinas-catl-low-cost-bolt-ev
[2] https://evworld.com/article.php?id=308&slug=gm-bets-on-catl-lfp-batteries-for-new-bolt-ev-what-it-means-for-safety-and-cost